As we work together to make a difference in communities, we want to better show people the lasting changes that Rotary members make in the world. Measuring our impact means we gather the information that allows us to do that. This handbook will help you plan how you’ll use measurement methods for all the service projects you carry out, whether they’re funded by your club, your district, or The Rotary Foundation.
You’ll find information about different approaches to measurement, practical examples, proven methods, and space for you to record your ideas or practice using the concepts. This will help you learn to plan and measure your projects and collect more relevant data.
Data is a powerful tool to help us learn what’s working and what isn’t. It also lets us create and share compelling stories about Rotary that propel people into action. Showing our impact through data can lead to new partnership opportunities and funding, attract new members, and forge stronger relationships in the communities we work with.
Here is the link: https://msgfocus.rotary.org/c/1RKJhEat29aS6J48UAdxliMlYIKRq
In Rotary, when we talk about project measurement, the term impact refers specifically to the positive, long-term change that results from our actions. This change is also closely aligned with a broader long-term goal. For example, many global health projects are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
In Rotary, many projects are aligned with the Foundation’s mission statement and our areas of focus and their goals. The goals of each area of focus also reflect the UN development goals.
Having an impact is the ultimate aim of your project, which you reach by first accomplishing the project outcomes. Think of it this way: The outcomes represent the journey people are on, and the impact represents the destination.
Measuring impact is a complex and long-term process. It often can’t be determined during the duration of a service project. More often, you reach your planned outcomes through the activities you included in your project. Measuring along the way helps you learn what’s working, what isn’t, and lets you adapt as needed.
As an organization, understanding and measuring our impact is crucial for us to ensure that our resources are allocated appropriately and to assess the effectiveness of our project activities.